The decision came amidst fear that bad weather could spoil major celebrations, including a grand meeting, military and civil parades, and art performances, when the capital city celebrates its 1,000th anniversary on October 10.

Several specialists proposed using foreign technology (normally using aircraft or rockets to spray chemicals on clouds) to prevent rainfall. The idea was estimated to cost more than US$1 billion.

Mr Hung said the use of technology would be a waste of money, and asked the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment to monitor the weather on an hourly basis and report to the Organising Board of the celebrations from October 1-10.

Hanoi authorities say if it rains heavily, major celebrations will take place at the My Dinh National Convention Centre instead.